Ruta Provincial 33
The Ruta Provincial 33 in the province of Salta in northwest Argentina connects the Ruta Nacional 68 near El Carril with the Ruta Nacional 40 near Payogosta . It overcomes the Cuesta del Obispo over a length of only 99 km, with the Piedra del Molina reaching the highest point of the route at 3348 m. Here is the eastern entrance to Los Cardones National Park . The route - which is also used by buses between Salta and Cachi - is one of the most spectacular roads in South America, especially the section between Escoipe and Piedra del Molino is impressive due to the route with tight curves along a steep slope.
The road first crosses the Quebrada del Obispo, then ascends into the Altiplano and crosses the northern part of the Los Cardones National Park . It connects the valleys of the Río Chalchaqui and the Río Guachipas . In the narrow valley of the Río Chicoana there are several rest houses, which offer simple local dishes and drinks as well as regional products.